Former Cowboys QB, assistant Wilson dies at 60
FRISCO, Texas — Wade Wilson, a former Dallas Cowboys quarterback and assistant coach, died Friday, on his birthday, the team announced. He was 60.
The Dallas Cowboys are not expected to extend the contract of Jason Garrett, who is in the final year of his deal, sources tell ESPN.
Wilson died at his home in the Dallas suburb of Coppell. Police said a 911 call was made from Wilson’s home, where the caller said Wilson was unresponsive and CPR was in progress. Emergency personnel determined upon arrival that Wilson was dead. Police said there was no indication of foul play and that the death was under investigation.
Wilson served as Cowboys quarterbacks coach from 2007 to ’17, helping develop Tony Romo into the franchise’s all-time leader in touchdown passes, and Dak Prescott, who was named NFL Rookie of the Year in 2016.
Wilson was out of coaching last year after the Cowboys opted not to keep him on staff.
“Wade was a cherished and valued member of our organization as a player, a coach and a wonderful friend,” Cowboys owner Jerry Jones said. “This is a sad day for all members of the Cowboys family as we have lost a truly great man.”
Emmitt Smith and Jason Witten were among the former teammates and players to offer their condolences on Twitter.
Wilson played for five teams in a 17-year career from 1981 to 1998, including a three-year stint with the Cowboys (1995-97), serving as the backup to Troy Aikman when they won their last Super Bowl in 1995.
Wilson started 69 games in his career, throwing 99 touchdown passes and 102 interceptions. In 1988, while a member of the Minnesota Vikings, he was named to the Pro Bowl after throwing 15 touchdown passes and winning seven of his 10 starts.
He played 10 seasons for the Vikings, leading them to the 1987 NFC Championship Game. Wilson also played for the Falcons, Saints and Raiders.
The Associated Press contributed to this report.